Installation of a heart ring or stent is a common medical intervention to address blockages in the heart's blood vessels. Although this procedure is quite effective in restoring blood flow to the heart, it is important to understand the procedure and its potential side effects. So, is this procedure safe for individuals with heart disease? Explore the procedure and side effects of installing a heart ring in the following article.
Procedure for Installing a Heart Ring
This is a relatively safe procedure and generally does not have serious side effects. Here are some key steps in the installation of a heart ring that you should be aware of
- Initial Diagnosis
At this stage, the patient undergoes a series of diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), angiogram, or stress test to assess the heart's condition.
- Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is administered before the procedure begins in the pelvic or wrist area that will be accessed.
- Catheter Insertion
The next step in the heart ring installation procedure is inserting a catheter into the blood vessels through a small incision in the groin or wrist.
- Use of Contrast or Dye
After the catheter is inserted, the doctor will inject a contrast agent or dye to aid in visualizing the blood vessels of the heart, making them more visible on the monitor screen.
- Stent Placement
The folded stent is then inserted through the catheter and placed in the narrowed area of the blood vessel. Once in place, the stent is expanded to open the blood vessel.
- Catheter Withdrawal
After the stent is placed, the catheter is withdrawn, and the small incision is closed.
Side Effects
Like other heart disease treatments, installing a heart ring can also pose risks of side effects, including:
- Sensation Changes
Some patients may experience changes in sensation in the area where the catheter was inserted. This is usually temporary but should be reported to the doctor.
- Allergic Reaction
The use of contrast agents can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The doctor will monitor symptoms such as itching, redness, or difficulty breathing during the procedure.
- Bleeding or Hematoma
There is a risk of bleeding or hematoma at the incision site. Patients are instructed to report signs of excessive bleeding.
- Infection
Although rare, an infection in the incision area may occur. Cleanliness and wound care after the procedure are crucial.
- Reaction to the Stent
Some patients undergoing heart ring installation may experience a reaction to the stent material, leading to inflammation or blood clot formation.
- Restenosis
In some cases, blood vessels may narrow again after the placement of a stent, a condition called restenosis, and additional procedures may be required.
Post-Operative Care
After undergoing the heart ring installation procedure, the doctor will monitor your condition to determine if hospitalization is necessary. The recovery period post-surgery depends on the patient's condition, but normal activities can typically resume after 1-2 weeks.
Certain activities, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, should generally be avoided for a few weeks. The doctor will also prescribe medications to aid recovery and maintain the patient's condition.
Additionally, patients are advised to adopt a healthier lifestyle to reduce the risk of blood vessel blockages. This may include consuming a high-fiber diet, engaging in regular exercise, getting sufficient rest, and effectively managing stress.
The heart ring installation procedure has proven to be an effective solution for addressing blood vessel blockages in the heart. While generally safe, specific side effects may occur. Therefore, it is crucial to communicate openly with the doctor before and after the procedure, as well as to understand the preventive measures and necessary follow-up actions for optimal recovery. Feel free to ask questions to the experienced and trustworthy IHH Healthcare Malaysia heart doctors to learn more about this procedure and its aftermath.
